Written by Alyssa Bormes with foreword by Dale Ahlquist.
Street Date: February 2014
Why does hockey have so many rules? Do we still need to have penalty boxes? Can’t we get rid of offside? And why is practice so important? What’s the big deal with the Commissioner? And coaches? And referees? Why can’t they just let us play? Anyone involved in hockey – players, parents, fans – would never take any of these questions seriously. Without the rules, there would be no hockey. And without the drills there would be no thrills. And yet Catholics ask similar questions about the Church all the time. Why does the Church have so many rules? Why do we have to go to confession? Why do we need priests? And what’s the big deal with the Pope? Why does the faith have to be so difficult? Can’t we just play? If you have ever needed help explaining the faith to your children, your friends and family, or even your foes, this is your new playbook. The Catechism of Hockey is one of the most unlikely, but effective Catholic resources for the New Evangelization.
“Don’t let the title of this book fool you. Its purpose is a most serious one—the communication of the timeless truths of our Catholic Faith using images that are compelling to the man or woman of today.” The Most Reverend JOHN C. NIENSTEDT, Archbishop of Saint Paul and Minneapolis
“As a bishop and a hockey player, I am grateful for this contribution which I pray will be an effective tool in helping people to grow in a deeper appreciation for the Catholic faith.” The Most Reverend THOMAS JOHN PAPROCKI, Bishop of Springfield in Illinois
“This book is enjoyable and should be an inspiration to those involved in the game of hockey. Herbie would have been humbled by bringing hockey into the realm of spirituality.” PATTI BROOKS, wife of the late Herb Brooks, Coach of 1980 USA Men’s Olympic Hockey Team
“Life is hockey? Maybe. The path to greatness is the same for both the NHL and your soul and this book will lead you there.” BRIAN BONIN 1996 Hobey Baker Award Winner
The Catechism of Hockey is Bormes’ first book, and uses the metaphor of hockey and sports devotion to explain the responsibility of Catholic parents to raise their children in the teachings and observances of the Church.
Bormes is a popular public speaker and retreat leader on a range of Catholic topics. She has taught Scripture, Theology, and Catechism in a variety of parish and Catholic school settings. As a speaker, she is known for her gift of igniting a newfound sense of wonder in the Church using storytelling, humor and analogy. Her passion is to inspire others to take on greater personal responsibility for their faith and to grow in spiritual maturity. Bormes is the Assistant to the President of The American Chesterton Society, Dale Ahlquist, in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
For speaking, seminar, or retreat inquiries, email info@alyssabormes.com or call 952-941-2299.
